Data Only SIM: Best SIM Plan for Mobile Broadband
Find the best value data only SIM card for mobile broadband. Compare data SIM & SIM plans for your tablet or mobile. Unlimited data options from UK networks.
“We needed reliable data for our surveyors working across the South West. The SIMs from Titus work great with no signal issues, and we can scale up when we take on new jobs.”
Stay Connected on the Move
Power your business with mobile data SIMs built for tablets, routers, and devices in the field. All the data you need to work from anywhere. Choose flexible plans that fit your usage and scale with your team.
Why Businesses Use Mobile Data SIMs from Titus
Reliable UK Coverage
Our data SIMs run on major UK networks, giving you strong signal and fast speeds wherever your team works - even in rural or remote areas.
Flexible Data Plans
Choose from a range of SIM-only data options to match how your business operates. From low-use tracking devices to high-usage field teams, we’ll find the right fit.
Easy to Scale
Add or remove SIMs as your business grows. Whether you’re setting up a few devices or rolling out hundreds, we make it simple to manage.
Need Help Choosing the Right Telecom Solution?
Use the form below to tell us what you need help with. Whether you’re setting up business telecoms for the first time or reviewing your current setup, we’ll give you a clear, useful answer to help you make the right decision.
Titus Data Plans Trusted by UK Businesses, Large and Small
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Choosing the Best SIM Only Deal, Data Only SIM, or SIM Card for You
Thinking about switching to a SIM only deal or getting a data only SIM card? Whether you’re cutting costs, need a SIM for your tablet, or want mobile broadband on the go, this guide covers everything.
We’ll break down what each type of SIM is, who it’s for, how it works, and what to watch out for.
If you’re looking to get more control over your monthly mobile spend, improve your connection with 5G, or just need data without the extras, you’ll find it here.
1. What is a SIM and how does it work?
A SIM (Subscriber Identity Module) is the small chip you insert into your phone, tablet, or mobile broadband device. It links your device to your mobile network, handles your number, and manages your access to mobile data, calls, and texts.
SIM cards come in various forms now, including eSIMs for newer phones. But whether you use a physical SIM card or an eSIM, it’s the tech behind your mobile life.
2. What’s the difference between a SIM only deal and a phone contract?
A SIM only deal gives you just the SIM – no handset included. You bring your own device and pay only for the data, texts, and calls.
Phone contracts bundle the cost of a new phone with your plan. You often end up paying more over time. If you already have a phone you’re happy with, a SIM only deal usually works out cheaper and gives you more flexibility.
3. Is a data only SIM right for you?
A data only SIM skips the calls and texts. You just get a data plan – perfect for tablets, dongles, or mobile broadband routers. These SIMs are built for streaming, browsing, and tethering, not chatting.
If you don’t need a phone number and just want internet on the go, data only SIMs are usually the most cost-effective option.
4. Who needs a data only SIM card?
A data only SIM card is ideal if you use:
A tablet without mobile connectivity
A mobile broadband device for remote work
A backup internet source at home
A car dashcam or tracker
If any of these fit your setup, a data only sim plan can keep things connected with minimal fuss.
5. What’s the best SIM for tablets and mobile broadband devices?
For non-phone devices, go for a data sim with enough allowance to match your usage. Look for:
5G support for faster speeds
A monthly data allowance that covers video and downloads
Compatibility with your device (some need a micro or nano SIM)
Data only sim plans work best when you compare sim options by device type. Some networks offer SIMs tailored for tablets or routers, especially useful for mobile broadband setups.
6. What’s the benefit of pay as you go SIMs?
Pay as you go gives you control. No contract, no direct debit. Just top up when you need to.
These sims are great for light users or as emergency backups. You’ll find pay as you go data deals for phones, tablets, and broadband dongles. They’re especially handy if you don’t use much data or travel irregularly.
7. How much data do you really need?
Data use varies by person. Here’s a rough guide:
Light use: 2GB–5GB monthly data
Moderate use: 10GB–30GB
Heavy use or streaming: 100GB+
Tethering or home broadband replacement: unlimited data
Look at how much data you use on Wi-Fi vs mobile to judge. Plans 4GB or less suit basic users. If you stream daily, aim for plans 100GB or above – or consider unlimited data sims.
8. Are unlimited data SIMs worth the price?
Unlimited data plans can be good value if:
You tether your laptop to your phone
You use mobile broadband as your main internet
You travel a lot and want no restrictions
Just be aware: not all unlimited data sims are truly unlimited. Some have a fair usage cap or slow down speeds after a limit. Check the plan’s data allowance terms carefully.
9. Is 5G really better for your SIM data use?
es – if you have a 5G sim and a 5G-compatible phone or router, you’ll likely see:
Faster downloads and streaming
Smoother video calls
Better speeds in busy areas
But coverage matters. Use a coverage checker before committing. Not all areas offer 5G yet, even from big names like Vodafone.
10. How do SIM only deals include data and roaming?
Most sim only offerings include a mix of:
Monthly data
UK texts and calls
EU roaming (limited or included)
Some even offer data roaming beyond Europe or let you use your allowance in countries like the US. Read the small print – and look out for the phrase: sim only deals include roaming or international minutes if it matters to you.
11. What’s the best SIM for international roam use?
If you’re going abroad, choose a sim that offers data you need while travelling. Some options:
SMARTY and Three offer global roaming
Vodafone has decent coverage and fair rates
Pay as you go sims can be easier to control costs abroad
Check what countries are included before you get a sim – especially if your destination is outside the EU.
12. How do you switch to SIM only or a new SIM card?
Switching is easy:
Choose a sim based on your data use.
Order your new sim today – many arrive in 1–2 days.
Text ‘PAC’ to 65075 to keep your number.
Activate the new sim card and you’re good to go.
Most networks now offer quick porting and online help. Whether you’re switching from Three and O2 or any other provider, the process is simple.
13. What’s the deal with dual SIM phones?
A dual sim phone lets you use two SIM cards at once. Handy if you:
Travel regularly
Want separate work and personal numbers
Combine a pay as you go sim with a contract sim
Many modern phones support dual sim. Just make sure your phone supports either two physical SIMs or one physical and one eSIM.
14. Which UK networks offer the best SIM only deals?
Popular providers include:
EE – simple, flexible plans, great value
Vodafone – strong network, international perks
Three – good for heavy data users
O2 – solid UK coverage, priority deals
Look for the best value data only sim, or compare sim only plan costs. Also check which sims offer data only options if you don’t need minutes and texts.
15. What should you know before signing a 24-month SIM only contract?
Long contracts lock in a price – but can limit your flexibility. Before signing a 24-month sim deal:
Check if the data you need matches the plan
Consider if your usage might change
Watch out for cheaper 12 month sim options or rolling 30-day sim deals
Plans are perfect if you’re settled and want a no-fuss price. But if flexibility matters, shorter terms are usually safer.
